U.S. President Donald Trump has announced the cancellation of planned military strikes against Iran, saying both countries could be close to signing a peace agreement aimed at ending months of hostilities in the Middle East.
Trump made the announcement on Thursday amid renewed diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions that have heightened concerns over regional security and global energy supplies.
According to international media reports, the proposed agreement could lead to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route through which a significant portion of the world’s oil shipments passes.
“The strait will officially open as soon as we sign, which could be soon, very soon, maybe over the weekend,” Trump was quoted as saying during remarks to reporters in Washington.
The U.S. president also suggested that high-level discussions involving Iranian authorities had yielded positive outcomes, raising hopes of a diplomatic breakthrough after months of conflict.
However, Iranian officials appeared more cautious, stating that no final decision had been reached regarding any peace arrangement.
Reports indicated that while Tehran acknowledged ongoing contacts, it maintained that any agreement must align with its national interests and established negotiating conditions.
The latest development follows weeks of escalating military exchanges that have contributed to instability across the region and disrupted international energy markets.
Analysts say a successful agreement could significantly ease geopolitical tensions and help stabilise global oil prices, which have experienced volatility since the outbreak of the conflict.
Financial markets reacted positively to Trump’s announcement, with major stock indices recording gains while oil prices retreated amid expectations of reduced risks to international crude supplies.
Foreign policy experts, however, cautioned that diplomatic negotiations in the region remain fragile and that the situation could change rapidly if disagreements emerge over the terms of any proposed settlement.
The conflict, which has persisted for several months, has drawn international attention because of its implications for global trade, energy security and regional peace.
Observers noted that the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz would represent a major step towards restoring confidence in international shipping routes and reducing pressure on energy-importing countries.
As diplomatic engagements continue, the international community is expected to monitor developments closely in the hope that the latest initiative will pave the way for a lasting resolution to the crisis.
The White House and Iranian authorities have yet to release detailed information on the framework of the proposed agreement.
